Our Work

San Francisco Department of Early Childhood Facilities Upgrade

Design-Build ADA, MEP & Structural Improvements | Whitney Young & Martin Luther King Centers

Bayshore, SF

2022

Healthcare

SF Dept of Early Childhood

Project Overview

Comprehensive design-build renovation of two critical childcare facilities serving San Francisco’s Bayshore neighborhood. This multi-phase project delivered essential accessibility, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural upgrades to the Whitney Young Center and Martin Luther King Center, enhancing safety and functionality for children, families, and staff while maintaining continuous childcare operations.

Scope of Work

Pre-Construction Services

Detailed cost estimation for dual-facility improvements
Comprehensive scope development and constructability analysis
Designer procurement and team selection
Value engineering to maximize budget effectiveness
Phasing plans to maintain childcare operations

ADA Accessibility Upgrades

New compliant access ramps with proper slope ratios
Handrail and guardrail installations meeting current code
Accessible pathway improvements throughout both facilities
Signage and wayfinding enhancements
Parking and drop-off area accessibility modifications

Structural Improvements

New exterior concrete staircase design and construction
Retaining wall engineering and installation
Foundation work for structural stability
Seismic upgrades meeting San Francisco building codes
Concrete flatwork and site grading corrections

MEP System Upgrades

Complete sewer line replacement at both facilities
Underground utility repairs and modernization
Plumbing system improvements for reliability
Electrical upgrades supporting facility operations
Safety and code compliance enhancements

Site Infrastructure

New perimeter fencing for enhanced security and safety
Drainage improvements and storm water management
Landscape restoration and erosion control
Paving repairs and surfacing upgrades
Outdoor play area safety enhancements

Project Challenges

Continuous Childcare Operations

Both facilities remained fully operational throughout construction
Work scheduling around daily childcare programs and activities
Child safety protocols and secure construction zones
Noise and dust mitigation during program hours
Parent drop-off and pick-up access maintained at all times

Multi-Facility Coordination

Simultaneous work at Whitney Young Center and Martin Luther King Center
Resource allocation across two active job sites
Consistent quality standards between facilities
Unified design language while addressing site-specific conditions
Budget management across dual-location scope

Design-Build Delivery

Integrated estimating, design, and construction services
Designer coordination and contract management
Permitting through San Francisco Department of Building Inspection
Value engineering during design development
Field adjustments and real-time problem solving

Bayshore Neighborhood Considerations

Community-sensitive construction practices
Coordination with San Francisco Department of Early Childhood staff
Stakeholder communication with families and neighbors
Site access in residential neighborhood setting
Minimal disruption to surrounding community

Results

Two childcare facilities upgraded with full ADA compliance
New exterior concrete staircase providing safe, durable access
Accessible ramps meeting current accessibility standards
Complete sewer line replacement ensuring reliable infrastructure
Structural retaining walls providing long-term site stability
Enhanced perimeter fencing improving security and safety
Zero interruption to critical childcare services throughout construction
Improved facilities serving Bayshore neighborhood families
Design-build efficiency delivering quality results on schedule and budget